Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of materials are available in the Digital Archives?

The Digital Archives at Queens Library is the online repository for selected maps, photographs, manuscripts, newspapers, oral histories and books documenting Queens, Brooklyn and greater Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk counties). The site is constantly growing to provide researchers from around the world with expanded and enhanced access to the library's local history collections.

How can I see these items in person?

Please visit The Archives reading room at Queens Central Library (89-11 Merrick Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11432), to see the materials you find on this website and many more items not yet digitized. The Archives has one of the largest collections of primary and secondary resources documenting Kings (Brooklyn), Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk counties. It consists of approximately 36,000 books and volumes of serials, approximately 2,500 cubic feet of manuscripts, 4,500 maps and broadsides, 105,000 photographs, 422 feet of vertical files, and 9,000 reels of microfilm. The Archives has subscriptions to 49 journals and 28 newspapers. You can reach Archives at Queens Library staff at (718) 990-0770 with reference inquiries or to schedule a research appointment.

Do I need to have a library card to use the Digital Archives?

No, anyone can access the collections at any time, from anywhere. However, if you want to comment, tag, or save research queries, you will need to either log in with your Queens Library card, or if you are not a New York state resident, you can create an account using your email address, first and last name.

How can I donate items to the Digital Archives?

Please visit the Queens Memory website (QueensMemory.org) and login using your Queens Library card, or set up a free account with your name and email address. Once logged in, click the Participate tab and launch the Queens Memory upload tool. At this time, we are accepting digital photos, scanned items, oral history audio recordings and wild sound audio recordings capturing the sounds of Queens.

Is there a way for me to keep track of favorite items I find on this site?

Yes, just log in using your Queens Library card, or if you don't live in New York state, create a free Digital Archives account. Once you're logged in, you can save your searches, add items or whole collections to your "My Research" folders, leave tags and comments, or send yourself citations for anything you find on the site.

Can I get high quality copies of items from the Digital Archives?

Yes! Add any image you find on this site to your "My Research" folders and then select the "Purchase" option.